Kühne+Nagel Completes Acquisition of Apex International

The logistics company Kühne+Nagel has completed the acquisition of Apex International. This is an important step in implementing its strategic ambitions in Asia. The deal results in an attractive service offering for Asian customers, particularly in the areas of e-commerce fulfillment, hi-tech, and e-mobility. Kühne+Nagel had to pay 1.1 billion Swiss francs for the purchase of Apex.

(Schindellegi) Kühne+Nagel has completed the acquisition of Apex International Corporation (“Apex”) after all closing conditions, including unconditional approvals from the relevant authorities, were met.

Apex is one of the leading logistics providers in Asia, particularly in the trans-Pacific and intra-Asian markets. The company generated revenue of CHF 2.2 billion in 2020, a gross profit of CHF 296 million, and a pre-tax profit of CHF 126 million, making it the seventh-largest air freight provider in the world. In the first quarter of 2021, Apex demonstrated continued strong performance with revenue of CHF 556 million, a gross profit of CHF 109 million, and a pre-tax profit of CHF 64 million.

Expansion of Service Offering

The merger of Apex and Kühne+Nagel offers customers an attractive service offering in the competitive Asian logistics market – particularly in the areas of e-commerce fulfillment, hi-tech, and e-mobility.

Dr. Jörg Wolle, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Kühne + Nagel International AG, states: “The acquisition of Apex perfectly complements Kühne+Nagel’s successful organic growth strategy and reinforces our strong position as one of the world’s leading logistics providers. With this transaction, we expand our service offering, our network, and the overall growth potential of the group – both in Asia and globally.”

Retroactive to January 1, 2021

Kühne+Nagel has acquired the majority of shares in Apex. A minority stake remains with the Apex management, with the parties having agreed on customary contractual rights for the acquisition and sale of these shares.

The purchase price paid on the closing date amounts to CHF 1.1 billion and was financed through the group’s own funds as well as the issuance of approximately 750,000 new Kühne+Nagel shares from the approved share capital. Over the next three years, Kühne+Nagel also has the option to acquire all remaining Apex shares for a performance-based consideration.

The Apex activities will continue to be managed by the existing, experienced management team – supported by the global network, resources, and solutions of the Kühne+Nagel group.

According to the transaction agreement, the economic benefits of the Apex activities have transferred to Kühne+Nagel effective January 1, 2021. The Apex results will be fully consolidated by Kühne+Nagel as of the transaction closing date.

Photo: © Kühne+Nagel